Chapter 27
Even at a young age, Chloe had an extraordinary gift for designing jewelry. When John and Adeline were still around, they encouraged her interest by buying her a variety of gemstones.
This led to Chloe frequenting numerous auctions throughout her university years.
Chloe was a familiar and welcomed presence at renowned auction houses like Christie’s, Sotheby’s, Poly’s, and others worldwide. Therefore, her opinion held more weight than Ida’s.
Despite branding herself as the most gifted new designer of her time, Ida had created only a few pieces. Each time she launched her products and shared promotional videos, she failed to explain her designs‘
standout features.
As a result, people began to question whether she was her pieces‘ actual designer. Chloe’s statements had cast further doubt on the matter.
Linda sat in her office, watching Ida’s clarification video on her computer, Ida looked as though she had been deeply wronged but was trying hard not to cry, which nearly made Linda laugh out loud.
Thankfully, Lina was there, saving Linda from losing her composed demeanor. Lina was watching the Belongs © to NôvelDrama.Org.
video as well.
With tears welling up, Ida spoke to the camera, “I recognize that my work is far from impressive and doesn’t even come close to Ms. Chloe’s. Given this, I understand why my participation in the Poly auction might make Ms. Chloe uncomfortable.
“Nevertheless, as a fellow designer, Ms. Chloe shouldn’t accuse me of plagiarism simply because her work wasn’t noticed this time. Such behavior is highly frowned upon in the design community.
“While I do have ties to the Wilsons, they have never helped me with my work. I’ve always depended on my efforts to get where I am today.
“Besides, I never intended to compete with Ms. Linda for anything, so why does Ms. Chloe feel the need to undermine my career? It doesn’t justify such behavior even if you have significant connections and resources in this industry.
“We are
all jewelry designers, so there’s no reason to undercut each other. Only a few designers from our domestic industry make it internationally, and I’m not one of them. So, I won’t stand in the way of your
success.”
Ida’s brief comments quickly shifted the blame to Linda and Chloe. It was evident that a PR team had scripted this. She couldn’t have come up with those words on her own.
Lina burst into laughter after watching it. “The Wilsons‘ PR team is impressive.”
Linda had to agree.
The clarification video was paid to be pushed into the trending list.
“First, she claimed that Chloe accused her of plagiarism out of spite because her work didn’t get into
Poly. Then, she said that the Wilsons never supported her career.
After that, she dragged you into it, saying she didn’t want to compete with you. Considering the recent news, it’s hard for people not to read into it. Plus, everyone knows what you did for William before,” Linal commented logically.
She continued, “Finally, she extended her point by emphasizing that few domestic designers have made a notable impact globally.
Chloe made a name for herself early and learned from a top Flomont jewelry designer, making it to the international market before many. Ida’s words were clearly loaded with subtle jabs.”
“Why
well.
else would I praise her ability to speak those words so well?” Linda responded, knowing perfectly
So, what’s your plan now?” Lina asked.
“Nothing. I’m sure Chloe will handle it just fine,” Linda answered casually as she shut down her computer.
Chloe wouldn’t make such claims without solid evidence. She and Linda would only act when they were certain of their ground. Since Chloe was speaking out, she must have proof of Ida’s plagiarism.
Lina was in awe. “You and Chloe never cease to impress me.”
Her first impression of Linda was that she was a delicate woman who required protection. But Linda quickly revealed herself as a powerful and ruthless figure.
When Lina later met Chloe, she figured that with such a powerful sister looking out for her, Chloe must be the more fragile one. However, Lina quickly noticed that Chloe’s strength and decisiveness exceeded even Linda’s.
During moments when Linda was uncertain and struggling with decisions, Chloe had usually already made the right call. They were so capable that they didn’t need support from others.
Thinking about their earlier talk, Lina asked with puzzlement, “Your latest film is still under review. Are you already onto the next one?”